Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer Is The New Xbox Chief

It was rumored yesterday that Xbox chief Don Mattrick was leaving the company to join Zynga as CEO. A few hours later, the announcement was made official. Naturally, everybody started wondering who would replace Mattrick. For the time being, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer has assumed the position of Xbox chief at the company. It is unclear whether he has taken over the division for the time being or if he plans on heading Xbox division in the long run.

Steve Ballmer is said to have sent an email yesterday to the staff, telling them that “Don’s directs” will report to him and will continue to drive the day to day business as a team. He advised the team to be particularly focused to shipping out the Xbox One this holiday season, as promised. Since Steve Ballmer is certainly not a person that many would equate with video games, it is widely believed that he’s just taking over the division temporarily. Xbox One is the company’s latest console, not only does its release needs to go off with a hitch, the division itself needs someone well accustomed to video games. It remains to be seen whether someone from within the Xbox division will be promoted or if Microsoft will make a completely new recruitment.